Thursday, January 2, 2003

Before getting started, create a new folder (call it "this_dvd") on your Desktop to keep all the files you'll be creating. Having these files in one location will make creating a DVD a little easier.

I. Export your movie to a QuickTime file.

(This example uses Final Cut Pro, but you can use any editing or video software, as long as the final output is a high quality .mov file. And be sure to save that file to the "this_dvd" folder on your Desktop.)

2. After Compressor loads, pick a standard window layout. This will make the various Compressor tools easier to find. From the Compressor top menu, select "Window", "Layouts", "Standard 1280x800".

3. In the Compressor "Settings" tab, expand the folders... "Apple", "DVD", "DVD: Best Quality 150 minutes". This folder contains two icons, one for Dolby and one for MPEG-2. Drag both icons up to the .mov rectangle at the top of the screen (where it says "Drag Settings and Destinations Here").

4. In the top left "Untitled" window, click the "Submit" button.

5. This will open a pop-up window. Click the "Submit" button.

6. If you go to the "History" window (bottom right) and expand the "Today" item, you should get a display showing progress.

7. When the processing is complete, go to the Compressor top menu and select "Compressor," "Quit Compressor." You'll get a "Do you want to save the changes..." pop-up window. Choose "Don't Save".

III. DVD Studio Pro.

1. Open DVD Studio Pro. While you're waiting for the program to complete loading, set aside a blank DVD-R--you'll need it later.